Origin of Garahan
Recorded in several spellings including McGarrahan, McGarahan, McGaraghan, Garahan, Garaghan Garraghan and possibly others, this is a Gaelic-Irish surname. It was originally spelt Mag Arachain, to which surprisingly the famous book "The surnames of Ireland" by the late Edward MacLysaght does not offer a meaning. This always seems to happen when the possible translation is either rude or lude. In fact this name is part way there, and describes a fearsome eater, or to be precise "The son of the son of the great eater"! Most Irish surnames, and indeed most Gaelic surnames, developed from a nickname for the original chief of the clan or sept.
This usually extolled the virtues or otherwise of being a great warrior or the follower of a saint, but occasionally the real truth came out. The original chief of the famous O' Kennedys was called "ugly head," so by comparison to be called "The Great Eater" is complimentary and no doubt was intended to be at the time it was given around the 12th century. The first known recording is that of Owen MacGarahan of County Galway in 1577, and it is said that the clan were originally from County Fermanagh.
The surname Garahan. Genealogy, origin, history, meaning, and significance
The history of the surname garahan is, like that of most surnames, a complex and fascinating journey to ancient times with the aim of unraveling the origin of garahan. Adhering to what we know about the way surnames originated, it is possible to offer a realistic explanation of the origins of garahan.
The surname Garahan around the world
It is common for surnames like garahan to become known in places far removed from their country or region of origin. Discover which ones.
History of Garahan
The historical journey of the surname garahan can be traced back to those who were the first bearers of garahan. In the following lines, you will find everything we have been able to gather about the surname garahan.
You can visit us regularly to get more information about the origin of the surname garahan, as we frequently accept significant contributions from other individuals interested in heraldry and the history of surnames.
Notable Figures Named Garahan
Unfortunately, it's highly probable that not all garahans who performed notable deeds have been included in historical chronicles and records. If you or someone you know bears the surname garahan, you could potentially build illustrious lineages through your efforts and virtues.
The surname Garahan and its bibliographic sources
It goes without saying that consulting bibliographic and documentary sources is essential when accessing information about the origins of the surname garahan. Accessing the archives of the town or towns where your ancestors were born and lived is, of course, a good way to trace the origins of garahan.
SOURCES
These sources are essential for initiating the understanding of garahan, and at the same time, of surnames in general.
